I've been using the tall stakes for PawPaw for a long time. I started out getting the regular labels then went to the heavy duty ones. I would highly recommend the heavy labels. I would love to get the stainless stakes but cannot afford that (would need close to 400 to replace). I use the Avery labels too and they do need to be replaced at least every two years. I'm going to try the Krylon Crystal Clear as Stan mentioned.
Stan, do you spray them after you put the label on the plate? Or can you spray a whole sheet of the labels before removing them?
Fred, I like your method using the 1/2" PVC pipe. I'm going to give that a try this year in my seedling bed.